Should You Buy a TRX System?

TRX suspension training is an immensely popular, very intense workout that you’ve likely seen ads for (for the at-home system,) read articles about, or even seen in practice at your gym. The nylon straps used in the workout are portable and easy to set up nearly anywhere, but many gyms offer classes with the straps already set up for you. So should you buy your own set of straps for home use or stick to the gym? Here are a three things to consider.

Have You Done TRX Before?

If you’re brand new to suspension training, it is best to try it out in a gym first. In fact, it might be a good idea to book a personal training session for your very first attempt rather than a larger class, just so you can get the right amount of attention.

The trainer or instructor will be able to guide you through the proper form and modify the moves to your abilities to prevent injury. Many gyms will let you pay a drop-in fee to take a single class to see if you like it, which is much more affordable than investing in the TRX system or signing up for a year-long gym membership before you know if you like it.

If you’ve taken some classes and know the ropes – err, straps – you may consider getting a set for home. You can use some of the moves you’ve learned in class and replicate them at home. Make sure to include warm ups and cool downs just like in class, too.

What’s Your Schedule Like?

If you travel so much that a local gym membership isn’t worth it, or if your schedule won’t allow you to make most class times, an at-home system may be right for you. The straps are light and portable (you can fit them in your suitcase,) and they can be set up in a variety of places. You can take them outside and attach them to a tree or jungle gym, or even on a door (like a hotel room door, provided the room isn’t too cramped.)

If you tend to do better with schedule gym sessions that hold you accountable, sticking with the gym might be better. What good is having the straps at home if you won’t use them? Think of your past exercise behavior: will you stick with it if the straps are sitting in the closet or are you more likely to head out to the gym for a scheduled class?

What Are You Willing to Spend?

Unfortunately, there’s no “cheap” option here. TRX suspension training kits are pricey. You should find out whether you enjoy this type of training and be able to commit to using it before you buy it. If you’ll be using the home version of the straps primarily for travel but you don’t travel often, personal trainer Kathleen Trottier told the Globe and Mail that it might be more cost effective to share a set of straps with a friend.

If you already have a gym membership, check if they have TRX classes included in your membership or if they offer them for a small fee. Look for local gyms that offer the classes; if they offer other programs you’re interested in, it will likely be worth the monthly fee to have access to all of the programs and instructor expertise that you want.